As Black Tusk as ever
Hardcore punk and sludge fuse to create the sound of Black Tusk. The group, from Savannah, Georgia, join several predecessors in their regional beginnings. Bands like Mastodon, Kylesa and Baroness all have roots in Georgia, and Black Tusk is narrowly the newest out of that list.
Black Tusk is a fast-paced sludge act; they create sounds that emanate disgust and earthiness with a tinge of catchiness through every LP. The band’s 2018 effort is aptly named TCBT or “Taking Care of Black Tusk” after the tragic passing of bassist Jonathan Athon in 2016. Black Tusk recruited Kylesa bassist Corey Barhorst to the band lineup and moved forward with TCBT.
TCBT is an adventure through Black Tusk’s astounding ability to turn chaos into catchy, flowing musicianship. The spoken word on “A Perfect View of Absolutely Nothing” begins the album before the band delves into the aggressive and familiar-sounding “Closed Eye.”
The highlights on the album mainly lie within the three singles released. “Agali,” “Burn the Stars” and “Scalped” all manage to each sum up what TCBT is all about. “Burn the Stars” is especially exceptional, as it moves and grooves at such a rapid pace. The chunky guitar rhythms work to keep the song moving and transforming as the track develops. The end of the song is even groovier than the beginning as it half-times the last bit of the song, making it a headbanger’s dream.
“Agali” is similar in that its riffage is simply intoxicating. Then “Scalped” presents a sound that really rounds out the album. The track is truly sludge-filled, from start to finish. The closest thing on the LP to a slow-burning stoner anthem, “Scalped” presents another facet of Black Tusk that is often overshadowed by rapid riffs and quick aggression.
Another track to look out for on TCBT is the bass-driven “Lab Rat,” which displays a deep bass range from Barhorst. In addition, “Ill At Ease” is also a must-listen on TCBT. The song serves the listener well in encapsulating the soul of Black Tusk in one diverse package. Black Tusk has been at it since 2005, and their 2018 release may be their most punchy yet. TCBT represents hard work, heartbreak and a persevering group of lively musicians. This LP has all the elements to be one of the best of Black Tusk’s lengthy catalog.
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